What Does The Future Hold For EVs?
Key Insights:
The UK has hit a significant EV milestone with over 380,000 new electric vehicles sold in 2024, representing 19.6% of the market share, while the charging network has expanded to 73,000+ points nationwide.
Battery technology is advancing rapidly, with developments in solid-state batteries promising greater range (Toyota targeting 917-mile range by 2027/28), improved safety, and potentially lower manufacturing costs.
Charging innovations include bidirectional charging capabilities (allowing vehicles to feed energy back to the grid) and ultra-fast charging technology that can add 100 miles of range in just 5 minutes.
While significant challenges remain around grid capacity, raw material supply, and charging infrastructure equality, manufacturers and energy providers are actively developing solutions to address these issues.
The electric vehicle revolution is accelerating faster than anyone predicted. With over 380,000 new EVs hitting UK roads in 2024 and market share climbing to 19.6%, we're witnessing a transformation in how Britain and the world travel. But what comes next? From groundbreaking battery technology to smart charging networks, the future of electric vehicles promises to be even more exciting than its remarkable present.
In this blog, we'll explore how the EV landscape is set to evolve, what it means for UK businesses and drivers, and why the next few years could be the perfect time to make the switch to electric.
The EV Revolution: Where We Stand Today
The UK's electric vehicle journey has reached a pivotal moment. The charging network has expanded to over 73,000 points nationwide, with ultra-rapid charging stations growing by an impressive 84% in the past year alone. This infrastructure boom, combined with the government's renewed commitment to the 2030 ICE ban, signals a clear direction: electric vehicles are the future of British transport.
But it's not just about numbers. The real story lies in how EVs are becoming increasingly accessible and practical for everyday use. Modern electric cars regularly achieve ranges of 300+ miles, rapid charging can add hundreds of miles in under 30 minutes, and prices are steadily becoming more competitive with traditional vehicles.
Breaking New Ground: Technology Advances On The Horizon
The next wave of EV innovation is set to transform how we think about electric vehicles. Manufacturers are developing new battery technologies that promise to deliver:
Battery Developments
EV batteries face several challenges in 2025. The mining of battery materials has environmental impacts, batteries eventually need replacing, and damaged batteries can pose safety risks. They're also expensive to produce. However, manufacturers are investing heavily in addressing these issues, with battery improvements being a key focus for the year ahead.
Longer Ranges: 400+ Miles On A Single Charge
This is a huge one, as many newer EV drivers may still have range anxiety while others may wish to travel further for longer. Lucid Air, Tesla, Rivian and Chevrolet are some examples of manufacturers that build cars with 400+ miles of range on a single charge. From the 2025 Lucid Air Grand Touring to the Chevrolet Silverado EV - there will eventually be something for everyone.
Battery Prices Declining
We should expect to see EV battery prices declining as time goes on, for several reasons, such as:
Higher production volumes - The business of scale has meant battery makers can now achieve cost savings,
Technological advancements - Higher density batteries equals lower cost,
Cheaper materials - The cost of metals and components has declined, and more affordable lithium iron phosphate batteries are being used.
This ultimately will mean EVs become more affordable and appealing for everyday drivers.
Solid-State Batteries
Researchers are focussing on developing solid-state batteries as well as improving lithium-ion technologies. This is great news because solid-state batteries offer higher energy density, faster charging, and improved safety compared to current lithium-ion batteries. Toyota is currently developing solid-state batteries with a 917-mile range and faster charging time. They’re aiming for a market launch of 2027/28.
Solid-state batteries are also expected to be cheaper to manufacture, which would lower the cost of EVs and ultimately make sustainable travel more affordable for everyone.
Charging Developments
The global EV charging market was valued at $39.7 billion (approximately £31.5 billion) in 2024 due to growing EV adoption, government mandates and advances in charging technology (like the increase in demand for fast charging). Here’s what we may expect to see in the future in terms of EV charging developments:
Charging For Heavy-Duty Vehicles
For those who drive Heavy-Duty vehicles, the wait time at a charging station is usually longer as the battery in their vehicle is larger which can disrupt operations and creates a need for dedicated equipment and facilities. So, in 2025, Heavy-duty EV charging will be a focus, globally. Progress is being made in terms of developing standards for mega-watt scale chargers. So watch this space!
Bidirectional Charging Stations
Bidirectional charging stations are, essentially, two-way electric vehicle charging. Currently, most, if not all, EV chargers go in one direction. Bi-directional charging technology would give your car the option to put the energy back into the grid. This is great when your car is sitting in your driveway and you have no use for it. Top Gear gives a great example: 40kWh of energy can power a modern home for two days, and a VW iD.4 has a battery capacity of 77kWh.
Ultra-Fast Charging Technologies
The development of ultra-fast charging has made progress - being able to put 100 miles of range into your vehicle in just 5 minutes. One of the main criticisms of EV drivers is having to wait at charging stations, but this may no longer be an issue! This is possible because innovative cooling technologies and new liquid-cooled cable systems, help to reduce charging time by 40% while keeping safe operating temperatures.
Government Policy and Infrastructure Plans
The UK's commitment to sustainable transport goes beyond vehicle technology. Let’s have a better look into what the government is doing to get more people driving electric.
ZEV Mandate
The government's Zero Emission Vehicle (ZEV) mandate, which came into effect in 2024, requires manufacturers to ensure a growing percentage of their car sales are electric. This policy is reshaping the automotive landscape, encouraging manufacturers to innovate and expand their electric offerings. Here’s what you need to know:
The mandate will set out the percentage of new zero-emission cars and vans that manufacturers are required to produce each year up until 2030.
80% of new cars and 70% of new vans sold will be zero emission by 2030.
LEVI Fund
Local authorities are investing in charging infrastructure through the Local Electric Vehicle Infrastructure (LEVI) fund, which provides resources for planning and installing EV charging stations across communities. This investment is crucial for addressing one of the main concerns about EVs - charging availability. We're seeing a particular focus on:
Expanding residential charging options for those without driveways,
Installing more ultra-rapid chargers along major road networks,
Developing smart charging solutions to balance grid demand,
Creating charging hubs in urban areas.
The Future of EV Costs
Perhaps the most exciting development for potential EV drivers is how we expect costs to look. Several factors are coming together to make electric vehicles more affordable:
Increased competition among manufacturers,
Economies of scale in production,
Technological improvements reducing manufacturing costs,
Growing used EV market offering more affordable options.
Industry experts predict that electric vehicles could reach price parity with petrol cars by 2026-2027, marking a crucial tipping point for mass adoption.
Smart Integration and Connected Features
The next generation of EVs isn't just about improved range and faster charging - it's about smarter integration with our daily lives. Future electric vehicles will likely feature:
Advanced route planning that considers charging stops and real-time energy usage,
Integration with smart home systems for optimal charging times,
Improved over-the-air updates for continuous performance enhancements,
AI-powered systems for better energy management.
Navigating Future Challenges
While the future of EVs looks promising, it's important to acknowledge the challenges ahead:
Grid Capacity and Infrastructure
The transition to widespread EV adoption will put increased demand on the UK's electrical grid. As more drivers plug in their vehicles, especially during peak hours, managing this additional load becomes crucial. Energy companies are already developing smart charging solutions that can automatically adjust charging times to balance grid demand.
Raw Material Supply
The growing demand for EVs means increased pressure on the supply of battery materials like lithium, cobalt, and nickel. Manufacturers are responding by:
Developing batteries that use more abundant materials,
Investing in recycling programs,
Exploring alternative battery chemistries,
Building more resilient supply chains.
Charging Infrastructure Equality
While charging points are increasing rapidly, ensuring equal access across all areas of the UK remains a challenge. Rural communities and areas with limited off-street parking need particular attention to prevent creating 'charging deserts'.
Looking Ahead: The Road to 2030 and Beyond
The future of electric vehicles in the UK is taking shape faster than many predicted. While challenges exist around grid capacity, infrastructure, and raw materials, the industry is actively developing solutions. The combination of improving technology, falling costs, and expanding charging networks is making EVs an increasingly practical choice for both businesses and individuals.
For employers, this evolution presents a unique opportunity. By offering electric vehicles through salary sacrifice schemes now, companies can:
Support their sustainability goals,
Provide valuable employee benefits,
Get ahead of the 2030 petrol/diesel ban,
Take advantage of current government incentives.
As we move toward 2030, one thing is clear: electric vehicles are no longer just the future of transport - they're rapidly becoming its present. The question isn't whether to switch to electric, but when and how to make the transition most effectively.
Last updated: 18.02.25
